Morning light filtered through the fabric of the tent, casting a soft glow on Jacob's face. He stirred, the faint warmth of the rising sun barely registering against his hardened skin. Slowly, he opened his eyes and turned his head. Isabelle lay beside him, still fast asleep. Her hair was a mess, strands sticking out in all directions, and her mouth slightly ajar.

Jacob couldn't help but smile at the sight. It was oddly endearing—how unguarded she looked compared to her usual tomboyish energy. Yet, as his gaze lingered, a pang of discomfort stirred in his chest.

Jacob (thinking): She's sweet, kind, and way too young for me. I might look 18 in this body, but I've lived longer. She's 16. That's—no. I can't even entertain the idea. It's not right. Different world, different rules... but my conscience won't let me. She's like a little sister at best.

Jacob shook his head, forcing the thoughts away. He adjusted the blanket over her shoulders and quietly stepped out of the tent, careful not to wake her.

A few moments later, Isabelle emerged with a yawn, her hair still a chaotic mess.

Isabelle (grinning): "Good morning, big guy. What were you doing sneaking out of the tent? Plotting something devious?"

Jacob chuckled, scratching the back of his head.

Jacob: "Just stretching my legs. Needed some fresh air."

Isabelle narrowed her eyes playfully.

Isabelle: "Hmm. Suspicious. You sure you weren't thinking about peeking?"

Jacob's eyes widened in shock, and he stumbled over his words.

Jacob: "W-what? No! Absolutely not!"

Her laughter rang out as she waved him off.

Isabelle: "Relax, Jacob. I'm kidding! Now scram—I need to change."

Still flustered, Jacob hurried out of the area, his face betraying his embarrassment. Behind him, Isabelle giggled to herself.

A Day Away

As the group packed up camp for the final stretch of their journey, the system chimed in with its usual dispassionate tone.

System: "You are approximately one day from Erendoor."

Jacob felt a twinge of sadness at the reminder. He glanced over at Isabelle, who was busy chatting with her father, David. The other merchants bustled about, preparing the caravan for the road.

Jacob (thinking): Just one more day with them. Then what? Go back to wandering alone? For the first time in this strange world, I feel like I belong somewhere. With them.

The system interrupted his thoughts again.

System: "While you slept, you accumulated 1 EP. Current EP total: 31."

Jacob perked up at the mention of his points.

Jacob: "Wait, 31? How'd it get that high?"

System: "Quests completed: Defeating goblins (10 EP), aerial monster slain (20 EP), minor exploration bonus (1 EP). Total: 31 EP."

Jacob rubbed his chin, considering his options.

Jacob (thinking): Might as well spend some of it. Let's see what the shop has.

A translucent menu appeared before him, displaying a list of items, skills, and upgrades. Jacob scrolled through the options, his eyes landing on a peculiar magic item: a necklace with a faintly glowing gem.

System (explaining): "This item allows its wearer to sense when the paired necklace's wearer is in danger or dying. Cost: 10 EP."

Jacob's gaze lingered on the necklace.

Jacob: "A way to protect someone even if I'm not there... I like it. I'll take it."

The system deducted the points, and the necklace materialized in his hand. The gem was a soft, pulsating blue, encased in an intricate silver design.

System: "Purchase complete. Remaining EP: 21."

Jacob studied the necklace, feeling a mix of nervousness and determination.

Jacob (thinking): Now comes the hard part... giving it to her.

He approached Isabelle, who was securing her pack.

Jacob: "Hey, Isabelle. I... got something for you."

She turned to him, curious.

Isabelle: "For me? What is it?"

Jacob held out the necklace, his voice slightly shaky.

Jacob: "It's a... magic necklace. It lets me know if you're in danger or hurt. I figured, you know, since you're traveling with your dad and all..."

Isabelle's eyes widened in surprise.

Isabelle: "Wait, you bought this? For me?"

Jacob nodded, scratching the back of his head.

Jacob: "Yeah. I thought it might come in handy. Just in case."

For a moment, Isabelle was speechless. Then, with a bright smile, she threw her arms around him in a hug.

Isabelle: "Jacob, you big softie! Thank you!"

Before he could respond, she pulled back and kissed him on the cheek. Jacob's face turned crimson, and he stumbled over his words.

Jacob: "I-it's nothing! Just... stay safe, okay?"

Isabelle grinned, clasping the necklace around her neck.

Isabelle: "Don't worry, I'll treasure it. And you, too."

A Griffin's Tragedy

The group's journey was uneventful for most of the morning. The beaten path was lined with tall trees, their leaves rustling gently in the breeze. Birds chirped overhead, and the occasional squirrel darted across the road.

It wasn't until midday that they encountered something unusual. A low, pained growl echoed from the side of the path.

David: "What was that?"

The group halted, peering into the dense foliage. There, lying in a clearing, was a massive creature—a griffin. Its feathers were matted with blood, and its chest rose and fell in labored breaths. Clutched beneath one of its massive wings was a single, pristine egg.

Isabelle (whispering): "A griffin... but it's dying."

Jacob stepped forward, his eyes fixed on the creature.

Jacob: "Stay here. I'll handle this."

Isabelle: "Be careful!"

Jacob approached cautiously, his hands raised to show he meant no harm. The griffin's golden eyes locked onto him, filled with both pain and defiance.

Jacob (softly): "I'm not here to hurt you. I just want to help."

The griffin let out a weak cry, its body trembling. Somehow, it seemed to understand Jacob's intent. Slowly, it shifted its wing, revealing the egg beneath.

The egg was large, about the size of a watermelon, with a shimmering shell that seemed to change colors in the light. Hues of gold, silver, and pale blue danced across its surface.

Jacob (thinking): It's beautiful.

He knelt down, carefully picking up the egg. It was warm to the touch, pulsing faintly with life.

Jacob: "I promise, I'll keep it safe."

The griffin let out a low, mournful sound, its strength fading fast.

Jacob: "I'll make it quick. You won't feel any more pain."

With a single, powerful punch, Jacob ended the griffin's suffering. It slumped to the ground, its eyes closing peacefully.

David: "Jacob, wait! Do you have any idea how much griffin talons and hearts are worth—"

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Before he could finish, Isabelle slapped her father across the arm, her face flushed with anger.

Isabelle: "How can you even think about that right now? It was dying! Jacob did the right thing!"

David hesitated, then sighed.

David: "You're right. I'm sorry."

Jacob didn't respond. He dug a shallow grave near the edge of the clearing, carefully placing the griffin's body inside.

Jacob (thinking): You deserve better than to be scavenged for parts.

He covered the grave with earth, pressing a large stone into place as a marker.

System: "You have slain your first aerial monster. Congratulations. Reward: 20 EP."

Jacob ignored the notification, his focus on the grave.

Jacob (quietly): "Rest in peace."

A New Flame

As they continued down the road, Jacob cradled the griffin egg in his arms. He wrapped it in a soft blanket, keeping it secure and warm.

The system chimed in again.

System: "Recommendation: Purchase the skill 'Life Magic' to better care for the egg."

Jacob opened the menu, finding the skill listed for 15 EP.

System: "Life Magic grants the user knowledge of basic elemental magic, including fire, water, air, and earth. It is ideal for nurturing life and performing minor magical feats."

Jacob purchased the skill, feeling a new warmth flow through him as the knowledge integrated into his mind.

He channeled fire magic through his circuits, warming his stone body to a comfortable temperature. The egg seemed to respond, glowing faintly in his arms.

Isabelle: "It's beautiful. You're really going to take care of it, aren't you?"

Jacob nodded, a small smile on his face.

Jacob: "Yeah. I'll raise it right."

Jacob's voice was soft but resolute as he stared at the shimmering egg in his hands.

Jacob (thinking): I don't know what it'll take, but I'll do it. I owe that much to its mother.

The egg pulsed faintly, its surface catching the firelight in a mesmerizing dance of gold, silver, and blue hues. Isabelle sat next to him, her gaze fixed on the egg with wide-eyed wonder.

Isabelle: "You really mean it, don't you? You're going to be its parent?"

Her words struck Jacob unexpectedly, making him chuckle despite himself.

Jacob: "Parent might be stretching it. More like a... caretaker. Besides, I don't even know what's inside this thing. Could be a griffin, could be a dragon, could be something entirely new for all I know."

Isabelle leaned closer, resting her chin on her knees.

Isabelle: "Whatever it is, it's lucky to have you. You're a good person, Jacob. Even if you act all stoic and mysterious."

Jacob tilted his head, smirking faintly.

Jacob: "Stoic and mysterious? Sounds like you're reading too much into me."

Isabelle (grinning): "Maybe. But I'm not wrong, am I?"

Jacob didn't answer, instead turning his attention back to the egg. The warmth radiating from it seemed to grow stronger, almost as if it could sense his resolve.

System (quietly): "You truly intend to follow through with this?"

Jacob (thinking): Of course I do. Why wouldn't I?

System: "Raising a creature of this nature will be challenging. Its development will demand time, resources, and vigilance. It is not a decision to make lightly."

Jacob frowned, sensing the system's usual cold logic beneath its words.

Jacob (thinking): It's not just about the egg, you know. It's about doing something that feels right. For once, it's not about quests or points or survival. It's... something more.

The system fell silent, as if mulling over his words.

Evening Reflections

As the fire crackled softly and the night deepened, David approached, his expression apologetic.

David: "Jacob, about earlier... I owe you an apology. What I said about the griffin's remains—it was out of line. I wasn't thinking."

Jacob glanced up at him, his features unreadable for a moment. Then he nodded.

Jacob: "It's fine. I get it—you're a merchant. Value is value. But some things are more important than gold."

David sighed, rubbing the back of his neck.

David: "You're right. Isabelle already slapped some sense into me."

Isabelle, who was still seated by Jacob, smirked.

Isabelle: "You're welcome."

David chuckled lightly, though there was a trace of guilt in his eyes as he looked at the egg in Jacob's arms.

David: "I'll admit, seeing how you've cared for it already... you've got a good heart, Jacob. That thing's in good hands."

Jacob simply nodded, not entirely sure how to respond to the praise.

Jacob: "Thanks."

The conversation lulled, and David eventually left to check on the other merchants. Isabelle stayed behind, her gaze wandering between Jacob and the egg.

Isabelle: "So, what's your plan once we reach Erendoor? You can't exactly walk into the city cradling that thing without attracting attention."

Jacob stiffened at the thought. She was right—carrying around an egg of this size, especially one so clearly valuable, would undoubtedly draw the wrong kind of interest.

Jacob: "I'll figure something out. Maybe find a quiet place to lay low until I know what I'm dealing with."

Isabelle's brow furrowed, her concern evident.

Isabelle: "You could stay with us, you know. At least for a while. My dad and I could use someone like you. You're good at protecting people."

The suggestion made Jacob pause. The thought of staying with them was... tempting. But he knew better than to get too comfortable.

Jacob: "I appreciate it, but I don't think that's a good idea. People like me—"

He stopped himself, unsure how to finish the sentence.

Isabelle: "People like you what? You're not dangerous, Jacob."

Her words were firm, but Jacob shook his head.

Jacob: "Not to you, maybe. But that doesn't mean others won't see me as a threat. Or a tool. It's better if I keep moving."

Isabelle frowned, clearly unhappy with his answer, but she didn't press further. Instead, she reached out and gently placed her hand on his arm.

Isabelle: "Well, whatever you decide, just know you've got people who care about you. Even if you're stubborn about it."

Jacob didn't reply, but her words struck a chord in him. For the first time in a long while, he felt... wanted.

The Griffin's Egg

Later that night, after everyone else had gone to sleep, Jacob found himself staring at the egg again. Its faint glow seemed to pulse in time with his own thoughts, as if the creature inside could sense his presence.

He adjusted the blanket around it, making sure it was snug and secure. The fabric was thick and soft, a vibrant crimson that offset the egg's iridescent hues.

Jacob (thinking): What kind of world are you going to be born into? One full of danger and people trying to take advantage of you? Or can I... can I make it better for you?

The system's voice broke through his thoughts.

System: "You appear quite attached already."

Jacob: "What's wrong with that?"

System: "Attachment often leads to vulnerability. This world is not kind to those who are sentimental."

Jacob smirked faintly, his tone almost mocking.

Jacob: "And yet, here I am, carrying a glowing egg through dangerous territory. Guess I'm not exactly built for 'practicality.'"

The system was silent for a moment before responding.

System: "If you are set on this path, I will do what I can to assist. But be prepared—this choice will complicate your journey."

Jacob nodded, his grip on the egg tightening slightly.

Jacob: "Complications are part of life, right? I'll figure it out."

The system didn't reply, but Jacob sensed a faint hint of approval in its silence.

Nightfall by the River

The fire had died down to embers, and the river's gentle babbling filled the air. Jacob sat with the egg cradled against his chest, his body warmed by the fire magic coursing through his circuits.

Isabelle, who had been leaning against his shoulder, was fast asleep, a content smile on her face. David lay a short distance away, snoring softly.

The soft glow of dawn crept over the horizon, warming the travelers with its gentle light. Jacob stirred first, his stone-like form creaking softly as he adjusted himself. The griffin egg, still nestled in its blanket, sat securely against his chest, radiating warmth that brought a small smile to his face. He gently set it aside and glanced over at Isabelle, who was still sleeping soundly against his shoulder.

David was sprawled out not far from them, his snores a steady rhythm that filled the otherwise quiet camp. For a moment, Jacob let himself take in the peace of the scene—the kind of stillness he hadn't realized he missed.

Eventually, the egg emitted a faint hum, its warmth intensifying just enough to stir Isabelle awake. She blinked groggily, her hazel eyes locking onto Jacob's.

Isabelle: "Morning... Did you stay up all night cradling that thing?"

Jacob: "No, but it felt like it. How about you? Comfortable?"

She smirked, stretching her arms dramatically.

Isabelle: "You're a decent pillow, I'll give you that. Stiff, but warm. Kind of like a heated rock."

Jacob rolled his eyes, chuckling softly as he stood and stretched, careful not to disturb the egg. By now, David had stirred as well, rubbing his eyes and muttering something about stiff backs and old age.

David: "Right, let's get breakfast going. No point in walking on empty stomachs."

The trio got to work quickly. David retrieved some dried meat and bread from the caravan's stores, while Jacob fetched water from a nearby stream. Isabelle sat near the small fire they'd rekindled, warming her hands and casually tossing questions Jacob's way.

Isabelle: "So, what's the first thing you plan to do when we reach Erendoor?"

Jacob: "Honestly? Find a safe place to settle this egg. After that... I don't know."

Isabelle: "No grand plans? No lofty ambitions? C'mon, you're mysterious enough as it is. Give me something."

Jacob hesitated, unsure how much to share. The system chimed in, breaking his thoughts.

System: "Careful, Jacob. Building rapport is important, but exposing too much could compromise future interactions."

Jacob sighed inwardly, giving Isabelle a soft smile to mask his discomfort.

Jacob: "Let's just say I've been traveling a while, and I'm not used to staying in one place. Erendoor's just a stop on the journey."

David returned with the water, cutting into the conversation.

David: "Erendoor's as good a stop as any, but you'd best tread carefully. That city's not kind to travelers, especially not ones without coin or connections."

Jacob raised an eyebrow, curious.

Jacob: "Why's that?"

David: "It's a bustling trade hub, sure, but it's got its shadows. Nobles run the place like their personal playground, and beastfolk don't fare well there. They're treated like property more often than not."

Isabelle: "It's disgusting, really. Dad tries to steer clear of those areas when we're in town, but it's hard to avoid completely."

Jacob's jaw tightened at the mention of nobles. The thought of stepping into another city controlled by corrupt elites like Count Tarmin made his blood simmer. Isabelle seemed to notice his reaction but didn't press further, instead nudging him lightly with her elbow.

Isabelle: "Hey, don't look so grim. Not all nobles are monsters. Just, like... 90% of them."

Jacob snorted, shaking his head.

Jacob: "Comforting."

With breakfast finished, they quickly packed up their camp. Jacob secured the egg back into the caravan, wrapping it in its blanket and checking it twice to ensure it was safe. As they set out, the road ahead seemed almost welcoming, the dense forest giving way to clearer paths.

David: "Should only be about three hours now. If we keep a steady pace, we'll reach Erendoor by midday."

The journey was surprisingly uneventful, the quiet broken only by Isabelle's endless chatter. She had a knack for asking the most absurd questions.

Isabelle: "So, if you had to fight one—would you rather face a giant chicken or a hundred angry ducks?"

Jacob: "Why is that even a question?"

Isabelle: "Because it's important! Strategy, Jacob. You've gotta think these things through."

Jacob: "Fine. The chicken. Less of them to deal with."

Isabelle: "Wrong answer. The ducks would swarm you, sure, but at least they wouldn't peck you to death in one go. Giant chickens are ruthless."

Jacob groaned, pinching the bridge of his nose while David chuckled softly from the front of the caravan.

David: "You've got your hands full with this one, Jacob. She's never been like this with anyone else!''.

Jacob: "I'm starting to see that."

By the time the walls of Erendoor came into view, the sun hung high in the sky. The city was a sprawling fortress of stone and iron, its gates flanked by heavily armed guards and a growing line of merchants, travelers, and locals waiting to be let in. The towering walls were imposing, a reminder of the city's strength but also its unyielding nature.

Jacob slowed his pace, taking in the scene before him. Isabelle walked up beside him, nudging his arm with her elbow.

Isabelle: "Welcome to Erendoor. Try not to look too impressed."

Jacob: "Fucking hell."